Nokia to provide GPRS core network for Proximus – a key step for Mobile Internet services in Belgium

Proximus Belgacom Mobile, the leading mobile operator in Belgium, is to implement the Nokia General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) core solution into its Proximus mobile network.

In this three-year agreement Nokia has been selected to supply its unique core GPRS solution inclusive services and BSS upgrades for Proximus’ GPRS network. Nokia's standards compliant GPRS system will enable operators to be the first to launch fully commercial GPRS services as existing second Generation networks evolve to 3rd Generation.

"This illustrates Proximus’ philosophy to continuously drive telecommunications progress forward to meet the most sophisticated of needs and make innovations accessible to the largest possible number of people. It is clear that mobile customers will be able to benefit significantly with the introduction of applications over GPRS," says Philippe Vander Putten, CEO Proximus.

"Proximus is one of the fastest growing operators in Europe, and we are pleased to have been chosen as GPRS supplier, after intensive trials. Nokia has been delivering GPRS systems that support both international roaming and the latest commercial standards, faster than any other vendor has today. This places us in an ideal position to work closely with operators such as Proximus in meeting the demands of the Mobile Internet marketplace," says Folke Rosengard, Managing Director, Nokia Networks Belgium.

The Nokia GPRS solution includes the industry's strongest and most efficient core GPRS system, including applications consultancy and systems integration expertise to integrate the GPRS core network into the existing service delivery and billing environment. Since August 1999, Nokia has delivered and implemented well over 50 GPRS core networks to leading operators in Europe, USA, Asia and China, and now has the largest installed base of any supplier.

Joint-subsidiary of Belgacom (75%) and Vodafone (25%) created in 1994, Proximus is the number one mobile Communications Company in Belgium. Its mission is to remain the preferred supplier of mobile communication services and solutions in Belgium. Every day, more than 2.5 million residential, business and corporate customers benefit from the first 900-1800MHz dualband network in Belgium, offering high quality coverage to more than 99% of the population.

Nokia is the world leader in mobile communications. Backed by its experience, innovation, user-friendliness and secure solutions, the company has become the leading supplier of mobile phones and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed and IP networks. By adding mobility to the Internet Nokia creates new opportunities for companies and further enriches the daily lives of people. Nokia is one of the most broadly held companies in the world with listings on six major exchanges.

Further information:

Nokia Networks
Communications Department
Tel. + 358 9 5113 8193
Fax + 358 9 5112 8199
Email nokia.networks@nokia.com

www.nokia.com